Three suspects are in police custody after a dramatic operation by law enforcement officers based at Kayole Police Station led to the recovery of a Retay Falcon pistol along Kangundo Road in Nairobi’s Eastlands.

The incident unfolded near Saika stage when officers on routine patrol spotted a motorcycle carrying a rider and two pillion passengers behaving suspiciously.

On noticing the police, the motorcycle sped off into Saika Estate, triggering a chase through the busy neighbourhood.

Police pursued and intercepted the motorcycle, prompting the two passengers to jump off and flee in different directions.

Officers engaged in a foot chase and managed to arrest one suspect, identified as 19-year-old Shem Kariuki Ondieki, who allegedly dropped an object during the pursuit.

The item was later recovered and identified as a Retay Falcon pistol loaded with 10 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The motorcycle rider, 19-year-old Emanuel Maina Kioi, was also arrested at the scene.

A third suspect managed to escape but was later tracked to Dandora Phase Four, where detectives stormed a house linked to him and arrested him inside. He was identified as Samwel Okoth Ochieng.

“Recovered from the house were a Ceska pistol magazine loaded with 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 62 assorted mobile phones, assorted electronic items, a Mercedes-Benz ignition key and several other incriminating items,” authorities said.

Police said the suspects are being held at Kayole Police Station pending processing and arraignment, as investigations continue into what is suspected to be an organised criminal network operating within Nairobi’s Eastlands.